Pippen's growing into role as a star

It took three years and a summer idled by back surgery, butBulls forward Scottie Pippen finally is emerging as a star.

All the statistics are up this season for the 6-7 CentralArkansas alumnus. Pippen also rides shotgun for Michael Jordan andis the No. 1 deterrent against double teams.

"It used to not cost so much to double up on Jordan," saidPistons coach Chuck Daly. "Now Pippen has stepped forward and becomea threat."

Bulls coach Phil Jackson says Pippen has developed "confidencein his outside shot. When Scottie hits his outside shot, he becomesa different player because he's such a good driver. It has reallymade us a better team."

Said …